WATERCOOLER: Should schools go sugar free?

THE New Zealand government's top child health expert has backed calls for schools to go sugar-free.

Dr Pat Tuohy, chief child and youth health adviser for the Ministry of Health, said a water-only policy would be a "great first step" to tackling tooth decay and child obesity.

His comments come after their Ministry of Education encouraged schools to consider adopting healthy drinks policies. The ministry advised schools to offer only water or plain, reduced-fat milk.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) one in four Australian children are overweight or obese.

Dr Tuohy said obesity was particularly worrying in children because it was associated with a wide range of health issues.

"The World Health Organisation recommends schools create healthy food environments so introducing a water-only policy is a great first step for schools," he said.

The Queensland Association of School Tuckshops is a "not for profit community organisation dedicated to the promotion and support of Queensland tuckshops in their endeavours to offer nutritious, hygienic and economically viable food services".

According to their website, bottled water, 100% fruit juices, flavoured milks, plain reduced fat milk and Milo milk are currently offered for sale in tuckshops in Queensland schools.